Black Headline News

Join the BHN Talk Radio team, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, Cheryl Smith and Brigitte Jones as they explore the Democratic Party's strategies to reach Black voters, while the Democratic Socialist movement is taking root in key elections. Hear from special guests about their assessments on the matter: The Honorable Judge Bobbie Edmonds (Texas) and former gubernatorial candidate and current school board trustee, Derek Grasty (California.)   Some within the Democratic Party are weary about the Democratic Socialist for America movement, although they have an organized, working formula, say elected officials.

Geologists and expert scientists say the back-to-back earthquakes are happening frequently against the norm   Listen to a recap of the Sunday, August 23 episode of the BHN Talk Radio Show with Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, Cheryl Smith and Brigitte Jones as they cover feature news story: "Understanding Earthquakes." The show reflects on the recent earthquake calamities worldwide California's predictions from top geologists and scientist, and the truth of the matter versus "fear." As earthquakes are a natural phenomenon that geologists and scientists continue to examine, what's recently noticeable is the large double earthquakes that are happening within seconds and/or minutes--devastating earthquake victims across the world. The shallow earthquakes are also a concern for scientists as human causalities increase from such disasters. A shallow earthquake is an earthquake that originates between the Earth's surface and a depth of 70 kilometers (about 43 miles).

BLACK-IN WEEK 4:  The Black press reflects on past Black journalists in history and present journalists, how they adapted to unique, political climates, featuring guest, professional journalist, Dr. Dareia Tolbert Jacobs of Texas.

On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Black Headline News launched the "BLACK-IN" campaign in conjunction with the July Fourth holiday weekend, using the first forum in a series to educate viewers about the plight and history of the Black press, urging viewers to support Black media with valid, copious explanations.   Week three featured special guests, Pastor Al Green of One Rugged Cross Church and Pastor B.T. Lewis of Rising Star Baptist Church, discussing ways to work with the Black press with award-winning news publishers Cheryl Smith of Texas Metro News, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb of ONME News, and Brigitte Jones of The Bay Area Review.

With news publishers, Cheryl Smith, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb and Brigitte Jones, join the BLACK-IN Movement, an initiative started by Black Headline News to inform viewers about the importance of the Black media; meanwhile, learn more about news publishers Smith, Dudley Najieb and Jones as to why they became journalist and publishers.  Also, learn more about how to reach the Black media, what the Black media can do and can't do, and how the Black media brings in its income. Meanwhile, special guest Sam Ennon, founder of BOBSA, explains the current status of the Black hair-care industry, nail salons and more after the recent boycott rumors have been floating thru social media.

  On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Black Headline News launched the the "BLACK-IN" campaign in conjunction with the July Fourth holiday weekend, using the first forum in a series to educate viewers about the plight and history of the Black press, urging viewers to support Black media with valid, copious explanations. Award-winning news publishers Cheryl Smith of Texas Metro News, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb of ONME News, and Brigitte Jones of The Bay Area Review, hosted the five-hour forum, showcasing excerpts of the 1999 film, The Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords, followed by reflective discussion. The documentary details the history of the Black Press, showcasing some of the first-hand sources who were present during key, historical moments in American history and beyond.

BLACK-IN 7-2-26-PART 1 'The Black Press Soldiers without Swords' discussion begins On Thursday, July 2, 2026, Black Headline News launched the the "BLACK-IN" campaign in conjunction with the July Fourth holiday weekend, using the first forum in a series to educate viewers about the plight and history of the Black press, urging viewers to support Black media with valid, copious explanations. Award-winning news publishers Cheryl Smith of Texas Metro News, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb of ONME News, and Brigitte Jones of The Bay Area Review, hosted the five-hour forum, showcasing excerpts of the 1999 film, The Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords, followed by reflective discussion. The documentary details the history of the Black Press, showcasing some of the first-hand sources who were present during key, historical moments in American history and beyond.

In this epsidoe of BHN Talk Radio, the news hosts reflect on the introductory speech given by former, First Lady Michelle Obama, in reference to her husband, President Barack Obama and the opening of the new center in Chicago. News hosts also focus on the 2026 NBA Champions, the Knick's, jersey- number mishap. Spotlight: Earth, Wind and Fire documentary reveals the ups and downs to success. Finally, young voters are trending toward the Democratic Party position.  Recent podcast explains why.

In this episode of BHN Talk Show, news hosts, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, Cheryl Smith and Brigitte Jones review the following breaking news items:  NOAA’s National Weather Service announced today that El Nino has developed in the tropical Pacific and issued an El Nino Advisory. El Nino, the warm phase of the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), is predicted to intensify to a moderate or strong level this fall.  Karmelo Anthony is appealing his recent murder conviction for the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco track meet last year. Spotlight - Here's a brief history of Juneteenth Elections - Part 1: The younger generation voting habit patterns examined

Breaking:  The National Park Service and Boston police are investigating an act of arson at the Museum of African American History Boston, where a staff member discovered package contents set on fire behind the building on Joy Street in Beacon Hill. More News:  Author's Civil War book banned by Trump administration Spotlight:  African American Music Appreciation Month Elections:  California election fraud claims unfounded

In this episode of BHN Talk Show, news hosts Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, Brigitte Jones review the latest breaking news where a federal judge on Friday temporarily blocked the Department of Justice from taking any further action to create, fund or spend money from its so-called Anti-Weaponization Fund as a lawsuit challenging it proceeds. MORE NEWS:  Over four years, a Los Angeles school district manager enriched herself with $3 million in kickbacks by working with a tech company executive to deliver $22 million in work, according to allegations in a lawsuit filed by the school district. SPOTLIGHT:  Clarence George Carter (1936 - 2026) was an influential American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist whose career spanned over six decades.  SPOTLIGHT:  Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock were an American hiphop duo from Harlem, New York City. Rob Base was the stage name of Robert Ginyard (May 18, 1967 – May 22, 2026) and DJ E-Z Rock was the stage name of Rodney "Skip" Bryce (May 8, 1967 – April 27, 2014). They are best known for the 1988 single "It Takes Two", a "hip-hop staple“ that was a top 40 hit and has been certified platinum by the RIAA.  ELECTIONS:  Former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms will win the Democratic primary for Georgia governor in her quest to become the nation’s first Black woman elected governor.If she wins in November, Bottoms also would become the first woman and African American to serve as Georgia’s chief executive. The Miami-Dade Democrat will leave Congress at the end of her ninth term.U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson has announced she will not seek a ninth term in Congress.

In this episode of BHN Talk Show, news hosts Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, Brigitte Jones review the latest news concerning historical graves vandalized with president Trump's name. Research shows that a cup of tea has billions of nanoplastic particles in just a few sips. Spotlight:  HBCU website highlights all the Black colleges throughout the USA. Georgia gubernatorial candidates Keisah Lance-Bottoms faces scrutiny by her own Democratic Party. Florida’s newly drawn 20th District is devolving into an intense and bruising showdown over race, criminal charges and political power.

BREAKING:  An alleged cyberattack involving “unauthorized activity” on Canvas -- an education platform widely used by universities and schools across the United States -- caused the site to temporarily shut down on Thursday, officials said. The company said it confirmed that an unauthorized actor carried out the activity by “exploiting an issue related to our Free-For-Teacher accounts.” As the Louisiana state Senate debated what the National Homelessness Law Center says is “one of the cruelest anti-homeless bills in the country,” more than 50 mainly Black unhoused people sat and lay on the sidewalk in New Orleans’ Central City neighborhood.  The bill, which already passed overwhelmingly through the state’s Republican-dominated House of Representatives, could subject unhoused people to fines, jail time, or even unpaid labor if they are found sleeping outdoors.  SPOTLIGHT: Raye Montague was only seven when she visited a submarine exhibit in her hometown of Little Rock. It sparked in her a love of engineering that would inspire her to shatter the glass ceiling of opportunity for African American women in the 1950s. Elections & Politicians:Republican lawmakers in Tennessee approved a new U.S. House map Thursday that carves up a majority-Black district in Memphis, reshaping it to the GOP’s advantage as part of President Donald Trump’s strategy to hold on to a slim majority in the November midterm elections. The Virginia Supreme Court on Friday blocked a new Democratic-drawn congressional map from taking effect, delivering a major boost for Republicans as they defend their narrow House majority in the midterm elections.Weeks after Virginia narrowly approved the plan in a statewide vote, the court ruled that Democratic lawmakers did not meet the procedural requirements to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot, which was written to pave the way for the redrawn district lines. Democrats were seeking a map designed to give the party up to four new House seats.

In this episode, news hosts discuss in detail the issues with the recent ruling in Louisiana in regards to the Voting Rights Act; new movie, 'Michael(2026)' has mixed reviews but overall excellent; students at South Carolina State University protest graduation speaker who is a part of the MAGA Movement, while some call to defund the college as a result.

News hosts explore the surprise tornado weather in California, and the mediocre weather in Texas, White House Correspondents' Dinner shooting, Sarah's Oil movie, President Donald Trump has resurrected his public rebuke of former President Barack Obama, reparations argument revisited in 3 minutes, and California's unique way of connecting to nonprofits throughout the state.

BREAKING NEWS: On April 15, 2026, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recited a prayer during a Pentagon service that was an adapted version of the fictional "Ezekiel 25:17" monologue from the 1994 film Pulp Fiction. Hegseth, referring to it as the "CSAR 25:17" prayer, used the adapted quote—famously delivered by Samuel L. Jackson—to describe a military rescue mission. (Capital B) Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax, who was the second Black American to hold that office in the state, fatally shot his estranged wife, Cerina Fairfax, and then himself at their home, police said. (NBC News) President Donald Trump announce that he was nominating Dr. Erica Schwartz to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Schwartz served as deputy U.S. surgeon general during Trump’s first term.  The CDC has been without a permanent director since August. SPOTLIGHT:  On April 21, 1937, Illinois congressman Arthur Wergs Mitchell, was told to move to the section of the train designated for African American passengers, in accordance with the Arkansas Separate Coach Law of 1891.Under threat of arrest, Mitchell moved to the designated area and filed a lawsuit once he returned to Illinois. (GAMBIT) The Louisiana House Judiciary Committee April 16 passed a bill essentially eliminating New Orleans’ clerk of criminal court just weeks before Calvin Duncan, a Black man who was wrongfully imprisoned for decades before being elected to the position last year, is set to take office.  The committee quickly passed Senate Bill 256 by Sen. Jay Morris, a Monroe Republican, on an 8-5 vote in a push to get it before Gov. Jeff Landry so that it can take effect before Duncan starts his term as criminal clerk of court on May 4. LEAD:  Each year, the world produces more than 400 million tons of plastic—enough to fill more than a million garbage trucks—and less than 10 percent of these products are recycled. The rest are stuffed into landfills; strewn across our land, oceans, and waterways; or burned in incinerators that create dioxin, a potent cancer-causing chemical.

Breaking:  Over 100 Nigerian civilians were accidentally killed, according to the local government.Afrika Bambaataa, the rapper and producer who helped create and bring hip-hop and electronic music to the world with songs such as "Planet Rock" and "Looking for the Perfect Beat," has died. He was 68 years old.  He carries with him the past of sexual abuse allegations, according to a former member of the group.Trick Daddy’s performance at an AKA conference sparks controversy.Automatic military draft explained.Spotlight: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (Los Angeles, CA): Founded in 1966, is considered the only Black college in California.Elections:  The Texas Supreme Court has effectively blocked a lower court’s order to remove Brittanye Lashay Morris, a Democratic candidate for Fort Bend County Precinct 4 commissioner, from the May 26 runoff ballot.Lead Story:  The Pine Bluff Branch NAACP has formally requested that the National NAACP Board adopt a resolution addressing systemic institutional failures that leave elderly African Americans with dementia vulnerable to financial exploitation — failures documented in the case of Dr. Jacquelyn W. McCray, a 2024 Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame inductee whose family trust was allegedly exploited while state and local agencies designed to protect her failed to act.

Applause erupted in the UN General Assembly Hall on Wednesday as Member States adopted a resolution declaring the transatlantic slave trade the gravest crime against humanity.  The resolution spearheaded by Ghana received 123 votes in favor.  Three countries – Argentina, Israel and the United States – voted against and 52 abstained.   “No Kings” demonstrations took place across the nation today, with crowds in major cities, suburbs and small towns marching, singing, and speaking out against President Donald Trump’s policies, the rising cost of living and the war with Iran. The Defense Department has requested $200 billion in funding to support Operation Epic Fury against Iran, but the Pentagon has yet to provide Congress much clarity on how it plans to spend that money, Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said March 25. Here is a a review of the United States Alleged War Crimes and Violations since 2026 ... United States-Iran relations have shifted from close, strategic partnership (1953–1979) to bitter, adversarial conflict (1979–present), largely driven by the 1953 CIA-backed coup and the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Formerly a Cold War ally under the Shah, Iran became a major adversary characterized by the Hostage Crisis, diplomatic estrangement, and sanctions. Spotlight:  Chiquita Renee Shepard (July 15, 1951 – March 16, 2026), known professionally as Kiki Shepard, was an American television host, actress and dancer best known as the co-host of Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002. So far, 36 House Republicans — including the most recent, Rep. Sam Graves (Mo.) — have announced they will leave their seat at the end of their term, pointing to legislative gridlock, family commitments or a wish to make room for the next generation of leaders.

(The Wrap) California, New York and six other attorneys general filed an emergency motion to block the recently approved Nexstar-Tegna merger. The FCC’s media bureau approved Nexstar’s $6.2 billion acquisition of rival TV station owner Tegna on Thursday. (Capital B) Angelica Johnson is forced to recount the images and sounds of her son, Da’Quain Johnson, being attacked by a police K-9 dog and being shot three times by police last month.  In the month since the Feb. 18 shooting of the 32-year-old father by Grand Rapids, Michigan, police, Johnson remains skeptical of everything the police and local media have reported about her son’s death.   Metro Atlanta is undergoing a housing crisis, which has been fueled in part by corporate investors and left unchecked by Georgia state lawmakers. Many of these lawmakers are real estate investors themselves, an investigation by Capital B and Type Investigations has found. Atlanta has long been called the Black Mecca, and through the early 2000s, the city boasted a reputation as an affordable city with a growing and prosperous Black middle class. In recent years, however, the lack of affordable housing has pushed thousands of Black people to the margins — or out of the city entirely. Watch current episodes here.

FAMU students not happy with secret agreement between their college and ICE without prior notification. Ryan Coogler's 2025 movie, Sinners, wins four Oscar, along with other Academy Award winners and historical firsts on his production team. Savannah, Georgia has a first, Black Ms. St. Patrick's Day. The special election to fill former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's vacant House seat in Georgia's solidly red 14th Congressional District is headed to a runoff next month. Nearly 40% of nonorganic fruits and vegetables grown in California contain traces of pesticides that are also PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” according to a new investigation. 

TSA workers not paid due to partial government shutdown causes shortage and long lines at airports. Dudley Najieb, Cheryl Smith and Brigitte Jones, the news hosts discuss breaking news, how TSA and The Department of Homeland Security workers are not getting paid due to the partial government shutdown, nine tornadoes hit several states, and "End Times" talk from commanders regarding the Iran war is problematic and a primary election results review ... Two shutdowns of the U.S. federal government have occurred in 2026, both arising from disputes in Congress about reforms to federal immigration enforcement after the killing of Alex Pretti by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents.The first shutdown lasted four days from January 31 to February 3, affecting about half of the departments of the federal government; it was caused by delays in approving a funding package that would allow time for reform negotiations. The second began on February 14 due to a lack of progress in the reform negotiations and only affects the Department of Homeland Security. Nine Tornadoes The Heartland is reeling after a catastrophic outbreak of tornadoes claimed at least eight lives, leaving a trail of splintered homes and shattered communities in its wake on Thursday and Friday. "End-Times" war with Iran? The Military Religious Freedom Foundation reports receiving more than 100 complaints from U.S. service members alleging that some commanders have framed current military operations in Iran in terms of Christian end-times prophecy, namely God’s plan for Armageddon and the imminent return of Jesus.Landon Schnabel, associate professor of sociology at Cornell University who studies religion and social change, says that the use of such apocalyptic language by commanders reflects a climate shaped from the top down.  Gas is up Gas prices surged across Southern California this week, with the statewide average climbing above $5 per gallon and some drivers encountering prices more than $8 at the pump.The national average has risen nearly 50 cents a gallon in the week since the war in Iran began, according to AAA. The organization said prices were already trending upward with typical seasonal patterns when the joint U.S.-Israel attack on Iran drove oil prices higher. Spotlight: The Honorable Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968 and later became the first Black woman to run for President of the United States in 1972. Her campaign slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed,” reflected her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.Legacy: Chisholm broke barriers in politics, inspiring countless Black women to pursue leadership roles. Eight of the nation’s HBCUs reside in South Carolina. These institutions have made a tremendous impact on the state’s economy. According to UNCF, South Carolina’s HBCUs produce 4,985 jobs and $5.2 billion in lifetime earnings. Take a look at the following list of South Carolina HBCUs and what they offer... Elections and Politics: Arkansas, Texas and North Carolina primary election results are in ...

In this episode of the Black Headline News Talk Radio Show, with host, Julia Dudley Najieb, Cheryl Smith and Brigitte Jones, special guest, Kendra Noel Lewis, chair of the California Democratic Party Black Caucus, reveals the current state of the California political landscape and its powerful Black vote. As Governor Gavin Newsom proceeds on his book tour in key states in the South and throughout the nation, the show hosts and guests point out the major challenges in the state of California, from unemployment of Black Californians, state-government contract barriers to the the expense of living in  California.

On February 24, 2026, President Donald J. Trump gave his US State of the Union Speech; unfortunately, there were more inconsistencies in the information presented than what was factual. Listen to a review of key statements made during the speech that may have been exaggerated misrepresented, true or completely false during the speech.

The show is hosted by news publishers Cheryl Smith, Julia Dudley Najieb, and Brigitte Jones. BREAKING: (FOX) Labor Department deploys ‘strike team’ to California over $21B unemployment debt, fraud concerns: The Labor Department deployed a "strike team" to California to address federal findings of improper payments and alleged fraud within the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) program. California has been found to have a depleted UI trust fund, along with $21 billion in borrowed federal funds to keep the system running, which federal officials say has led state employers to pay higher UI taxes to repay the debt. Also, news hosts give their final reflections on the late civil rights leader, Jesse Jackson as they discuss President Donald J. Trump also giving his remarks regarding the deceased community activist. (EdSource) Meanwhile, California State University campuses are among those that have pledged to sever ties with organizations that help people of color under pressure from the Trump administration, an investigation by the Washington Post has found, according to EdSource. Black History Month Spotlight: HBCU marching bands go through quite a bit of preparation for their performances. Here is a backstage look at Howard University's marching band preparing for a big show. Elections & Politics: (NPR) Fewer congressional contests are expected to be competitive this fall, compared with past election cycles, and experts say the extraordinary mid-decade redistricting efforts initiated by President Trump are largely to blame, surmised from The Cook Political Report. (CBS News.) Longtime incumbent Sen. John Cornyn is facing the fight of his political life, with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Houston Rep. Wesley Hunt, both challenging him for the GOP nomination. The most recent polling from the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs showed Paxton with 38% support, Cornyn at 31%, Hunt with 17% and 12% undecided. The Real Clear Politics average of polls between December 1 and February 3 gives Paxton a two-point lead. If no candidate gets a majority, as is widely expected, the race will end up in a runoff on May 26th.  Watch the last part of the documentary, "Nanoplastics: Threat to Life."

The show is hosted by news publishers Cheryl Smith, Julia Dudley Najieb, and Brigitte Jones. BREAKING: Starting with a tribute to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, this episode covers: Is the SAVE America Act the new 'Jim Crow 2.0'? DHS Shutdown begins ... redistricting scheme backfiring ... Black History Month Spotlight: In 2022, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's HOPE Crew (Hands-On Preservation Experience; http://www.savingplaces.org/hope-crew) program in partnership with the African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund (http://www.savingplaces.org/action-fund) presented a 6-month paid fellowship to students studying at three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs; http://www.savingplaces.org/hbcus): Florida A&M University, Prairie View A&M University, and Tuskegee University. To share the impact of the digital documentation fellowship and the way in which it has encouraged and supported the integration of historic preservation at HBCUs, HOPE Crew, in partnership with the Action Fund produced a documentary featuring the five students from the cohort. Election & Politics: (FOX News) Democratic lawmakers say President Donald Trump’s redistricting gambit is backfiring as Virginia’s Democratic-controlled Senate advanced new congressional maps that could chip away at the House GOP's majority. (NBC News) While some state lawmakers have been able to redraw congressional maps through legislation, Virginia's constitution mandates that a bipartisan redistricting commission handles the process. After several Republican-controlled states enacted new maps, Virginia Democrats began the complicated effort of amending the constitution to allow them to respond with redrawn district lines. (SCOTUSblog) California’s path to the enactment of its new map was slightly more complicated than in Texas. The California Legislature adopted the new map in August, but under the state constitution an independent redistricting commission – rather than the Legislature – normally has the power to redistrict. The legislation adopting the new map therefore proposed a ballot initiative, known as Proposition 50, that would amend the constitution to allow the use of the new map from 2026 through 2030. By a roughly two-to-one margin, the state’s voters approved the initiative in a special election on Nov. 4. 

In this episode:  Julia Dudley Najieb and Cherly Smith start with the breaking news regarding the Obamas being depicted as apes in President Trump's delete Truth Social post.  The other breaking news deals with the Apple Music Super Bowl 60 Halftime Show featuring Bad Bunny controversy over his all-Spanish speaking performance. Black History Month Spotlight:  Black colleges in Atlanta, GA Elections:  Trump calls to nationalize elections: federal judges orders Fulton County Georgia election case unsealed by an immediate date In the final hour:  Explore with BHN Talk Radio top scientists from throughout the world the threat of nanoplastic and how it is adversely affecting humanity and the living environment.

BREAKING:  Independent journalist Georgia Fort, former CNN anchor Don Lemon, and activists Trahern Crews and Jamael Lundy, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi were arrested at the end of January concerning a protest at a church location. Black History Month Spotlight: HBCUs in Nashville, TN  Election & Politics: Texas upset from special election could interfere with bigger plans in the Senate for Republicans: Democrat Taylor Rehmet pulled an upset in a Fort Worth-area district, beating Republican Leigh Wambsganss 57%-43% in a runoff election in a solidly Republican district. Listen to movie excerpt, "Nanoplastics: Threat to Life" part one.

In this episode of BHN Talk Radio, Julia Dudley Najieb, Brigitte Jones and Cheryl Smith start with the breaking news of the winter storm that affected millions of people throughout the United States; over 11,500 flights were cancelled.  The hosts then connected the conversation with Dr. John Ahn from the previous episode who talked about the reason for the boost in natural disasters. Other news items discussed: Death Penalty on the Rise Over the last year, eight states have enacted 20 bills regarding capital punishment. In 2025, 43 executions were carried out across 11 states—a sharp rise from the 25 executions in 2024, according to the Death Penalty Information Center. Philadelphia sues over Trump directive to remove slavery displays from historical site (CBS News) A series of informational signs about slavery was removed from the President's House in Old City Philadelphia, prompting Philadelphia officials to file a lawsuit against the federal government. Elaine Quijano has more. Spotlight: Ryan Coogler's movie Sinners nominated 16 times (NPR) This year, Ryan Coogler's brilliant vampire story Sinners bested that by two, landing 16 nominations. Feature Story:  The United States said Thursday that it had officially completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO).  But WHO member states are not obliged to accept the US departure as legally binding until it pays up on some $260.6 million in dues owed for 2024- and 2025, WHO’s Director General contends in a report to WHO member states, published this week.  Elections & Politics:  State primary dates for 2026 are listed below. Political parties use primaries to determine which candidates will run for their state’s partisan offices in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. Legislative, congressional, gubernatorial and statewide offices are on the ballots in 46 states. 

This episode of the Black Headline News Talk Radio Show with news publisher hosts Julia Dudley Najieb, Brigitte Jones and Cheryl Smith features special guest, Dr. John Ahn. Dr. John Ahn, PhD, MBA, is a distinguished professional recognized for building pathways between cutting-edge research and commercial impact. With multidisciplinary expertise in chemistry, life sciences, engineering, and venture development, Dr. Ahn drives sustainable innovations by translating early-stage discoveries into scalable technologies that address pressing global challenges. He has an established record of launching startups, cultivating strategic partnerships, and commercializing breakthroughs across agriculture, biotechnology, chemicals, energy, and materials science.Dudley Najieb, Jones and Smith discuss the increasing amount of natural weather disasters nationwide and worldwide, followed by a deep discussion about micro and nanoplastics damaging our health, even while we sleep. National News Headlines Ghana Helped U.S. Deport Migrants, and Now Its Own Citizens Are Shut Out“America is a bully that is never satisfied,” Oliver Barker-Vormawor said from Ghana.  The Trump administration’s new freeze on immigrant visas from 75 nations is the latest example, he added.  African nations make up a striking share of the 75 countries swept into the Trump administration’s new freeze on immigrant visas This Texas County Is the Deadliest Place in the U.S. for Black Mothers to Give BirthA recent study by local public health officials found that from 2016 to 2020, the maternal mortality rate for Black women in Harris County was 83.4 per 100,000 live births — the highest in the nation. In 2020, the national rate for Black women was 55.3 per 100,000; for white women, it was 19.1. Groundbreaking Ceremony for the African American Holistic Resource CenterThe African American Holistic Resource Center (AAHRC) will focus on serving African American Berkeley residents, particularly people from South and West Berkeley neighborhoods, and those displaced from Berkeley who have been disproportionally impacted by racism and gentrification and would benefit from treatment and services provided in a culturally responsive and supportive way. AAHRC will be open to all, however the focus of the AAHRC will be to enhance strengthen, and validate African American/Black identity, cultural values, and traditions. AAHRC will support participants by using community-defined and culturally appropriate approaches and practices. Global News Headlines Chaos at Africa Cup of Nations final after Senegal players walk off fieldThe Africa Cup of Nations final went to extra time after finishing 0-0 in a chaotic end that saw Senegal players walk off the field when host Morocco was awarded a stoppage-time penalty.Senegal would go on to win the game 1-0 in extra time to lift their second AFCON title and second in five years after winning it in 2021. Floods kill more than 100 across southern Africa as rains intensifyTorrential rains have killed more than 100 people across Southern Africa, forcing mass evacuations and rescue operations as authorities warn that more destructive weather may still be to come.Weeks of heavy rainfall have battered South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, overwhelming rivers and infrastructure and leaving entire communities cut off. Weather services across the region have issued further alerts, raising fears of additional flooding.

Today's episode of Black Headline News Talk Radio Show: Hosted by news publishers Cheryl Smith, Julia Dudley Najieb, and Brigitte Jones, today's show includes the following topics: Fraud allegations blocked for nowNBC News: A federal judge ruled Friday that President Donald Trump’s administration cannot block federal money for child care subsidies and other programs aimed at supporting needy children and their families from flowing to five Democratic-led states for now.Fake degrees?TYT contributing show host Dr. Rashad Richey claims to have earned five doctorates and five master's degrees in ten areas of study, but citizen journalist, Cam James seems to prove otherwise, claiming that at least seven of these degrees come from diploma mills or non-existent programs.Exposing Rashad Richey (Part 1): The GOAT of Fake DegreesExposing Rashad Richey (Part 2): The Scam University & Fake Investigation FirmTYT’s Rashad Richey: Fake Degrees, Fake Lawyer, Real ScamAre we living the dream?Smith, Dudley Najieb and Jones give their commentary on where Black America stands today.Let's "stamp" for joy for Ali and Wheatley!Black Headline News: The U.S. Postal Service is honoring Phillis Wheatley (1753-1784), the first author of African descent in the American Colonies to publish a book, with the 49th stamp in the Black Heritage series.A famed coach gunned down is remembered:San Francisco Chronicles: John Beam's celebration of life brought out a wide range of luminaries with deep ties to Oakland.Among the speakers were Mayor Barbara Lee and Rep. Lateefah Simon. Among the familiar faces in the crowd were five-time Pro Bowl running back Marshawn Lynch and nine-time NBA All-Star Damian Lillard, both proud Oakland natives.

The Black Headline News Talk Radio Show team hosted a special three-hour radio show broadcast to review the most influential news stories of the year: the government shutdown, the Department of Education shutdown, the redistricting battles, the Charlie Kirk memorializing controversy, and Black women candidates running for higher offices. Hosted by news publishers Cheryl Smith, Julia Dudley Najieb, and Brigitte Jones, encores of the show can be watched daily on the AMPTV Network of channels or listen to the audio version below. Starting Tuesday, January 13, 2026, new shows broadcast weekly at 4:00 PM PDT/6:00 PM CDT on Tuesdays, with repeats every Tuesday at the same time. Programming can also be accessed on CTV platforms Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, and the Live 365 mobile radio app.

Learn about this week in America's Black History.

Learn about this week in America's Black History.

Breaking:  The NAACP, the nation's leading civil rights organization, announced its creation of the Black Consumer Advisory, The Advisory places emphasis on Black consumers' nearly $2 trillion in spending power, promoting informed spending decisions by providing the Black community with insight into who's promoting progress, and who's living in the past. During her February 13 Senate confirmation hearing, Trump nominee for education secretary Linda McMahon cast doubt on the future of Black history courses in American public schools, saying she’s “not quite certain” if Black history instruction would violate an executive order banning “critical race theory in the classroom." During Biden’s presidency, some right-wing media figures called for the end of Black history curriculum, with one Fox News personality calling it a “Trojan horse.” The Alfred Street Baptist Church of Alexandria has decided to cancel its annual Christmas performance at D.C.’s Kennedy Center. The move follows President Donald Trump’s complaints that the programming at the Kennedy Center under its past board was too “woke.” The president has since overhauled the Kennedy Center’s board of trustees, which voted to make him the chairman. Green Watch:  A 10-minute excerpt of the documentary, "The Anthropogenic Factor in the Ocean's Demise" is shown as well as a discussion about the documentary, "Water from Air:  The Path to Saving Humanity. Spotlight:  The 10th Annual African American History Parade and Symposium took over the streets of downtown Houston on Saturday. The event was organized by The Houston Sun Foundation during Black History Month. More News:  The Super Bowl halftime show sparks different reactions, one extreme to the other.  However, this reviewers does a detailed breakdown of the meaning of the performance. Feature:  Robin McElroy, a Morgan Park resident, has cherished her Chicago home since purchasing it in 2012. But now, she’s facing panic and frustration over a mix-up involving unpaid property taxes. Despite proof of consistent payments since 2012, McElory recently received a letter from the Cook County Circuit Court stating her home was sold for delinquent taxes, and she may owe three years of back rent to the buyer.

Learn about this week in America's Black History.

Breaking:  The Justice Department on Monday ordered federal prosecutors to drop corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, arguing in a remarkable departure from long-standing norms that the case was interfering with the mayor’s ability to aid the president’s crackdown on illegal immigration. Green Watch:  A magnitude-7.6 earthquake struck in the western Caribbean on Saturday night, prompting a tsunami advisory for the Cayman Islands as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands were cleared of the threat. The quake struck at 6:23 p.m. ET at a depth of about 6 miles below ground, about 130 miles south-southwest of George Town, Cayman Islands, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Scientists have detected several thousand earthquakes, the vast majority of them with small magnitudes, in just over two weeks near Greece's volcanic island of Santorini, the University of Athens' crisis management committee said Tuesday, adding that a larger quake cannot be ruled out. The highly unusual barrage of earthquakes which began in late January has alarmed authorities. They have declared a state of emergency on Santorini, one of Greece's most popular tourist destinations, deploying rescue crews with drones and a sniffer dog and putting coast guard and navy vessels on standby. Spotlight:  Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., professionally known as Irv Gotti or DJ Irv, was an American record producer. He co-founded the record label Murder Inc. Records in 1998, which was an imprint of Def Jam Recordings.  More News:  Blaine and Diane Smith were hurt but unsurprised when a Georgia superior court judge ruled last week that a railroad company could seize their land, despite their refusal to sell.  For nearly two years, they have been fighting to stop Sandersville Railroad Co., a 130-year-old, white-owned business, from building a 4.5-mile rail spur through a historically Black neighborhood in rural Sparta. The company initiated eminent domain, which is a process that allows the government to seize private property for public use. Feature Story:  Here is a review of the pre-show, the game and the halftime show.

Learn about this week in America's Black History.

Learn about this week in America's Black History.

Breaking: Atlanta pastor is supporting a boycott against Target starting in March; is this the right approach for this era? Green watch: Over 200 earthquakes have hit the region near a series of Greek islands; the undersea volcano could be active. Spotlight: Dr. Carter G. Woodson was more than just the father of Black History Month ... More News: President Trump signed the Black History Month proclamation, just as he did in his first term. Feature: The Grammy Awards may have had less viewers, but some historic wins by Black artists are notable --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------With news publishers, Cheryl Smith, Julia Ann Dudley Najieb and Brigitte Jones, get the latest breaking, political and other news from a Black perspective, new episodes live on Tuesdays: 4:00 PM PST/6:00CST/7:00 PM EST.

BREAKING:  The White House is pausing federal grants and loans starting Tuesday as President Donald Trump’s administration begins an across-the-board ideological review of its spending, causing confusion and panic among organizations that rely on Washington for their financial lifeline. GREEN WATCH:  Egg prices have steadily risen in recent months due to a spike in bird flu; outbreaks in egg-laying chickens are affecting the national supply, driving up costs. SPOTLIGHT:   Rapper DJ Unk, who was best known for the bouncy early-2000s crunk hit "Walk It Out," has died at age 43. MORE NEWS:  Social media posts have suggested that President Trump moved to end the official observance of Black History Month, but there is currently no official order or directive to literally “cancel” Black History Month from the President. FEATURE:  Over 42.1 million Americans, about 13% of all families, receive SNAP benefits. More than 1 in 4 of the households enrolled in the program include someone who is earning at least some income.

Breaking: Shocking winter storm brings snow from Texas to the Gulf of Mexico and to Northern Florida is up to four inches. Spotlight: Martin Luther King, III gives us tips on how to "Realize the Dream" before his father's 100th birthday; here is what we all can do in service. More News: Mississippi Valley State University marching band raised over $300,000.00 to attend the presidential inaugural celebration; was it the best spend? Here's how they did ... Feature: For historically Black Altadena, the combined wildfire loss of generational wealth and personal heirlooms is indescribable, says CNN. Here's more on how those fires burned up Black wealth in Southern California.

BREAKING: California wildfires become political while residents suffer.Millions flee Haiti as civil war brews among gangs.GREEN WATCH:  Florida to reach subfreezing temperatures over the next coming week. SPOTLIGHT:  The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. remains honored despite the irony of the federal holiday January 20, 2025. MORE NEWS:  MSNBC president, Rashida Jones, steps down after four years as the cable company splits its programming assets. FEATURE:  Insurance companies escape California dread after dropping many residents several months before due to the high risk of fires.

BREAKING: Jimmy Carter, the 39th president, died on Dec. 29 at the age of 100 — living longer than any president in U.S. history, serving from 1977 to 1981. His beloved wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, died in November 2023. GREEN WATCH:  More than 120 people have been killed after a powerful earthquake struck a remote region of Tibet on Tuesday morning, with tremors felt across the Himalayas in neighboring Nepal, Bhutan and parts of northern India. The 7.1-magnitude quake struck at 9:05 a.m. local time at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) and was followed by multiple aftershocks, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Africa Is Splitting Apart: A New Ocean Is Forming Faster Than Anyone Predicted:  A dramatic transformation is unfolding in Africa as tectonic forces drive the continent toward the formation of a brand-new ocean. At the heart of this shift lies the East African Rift System, a massive network of faults and fissures that is reshaping the region’s geography at an accelerated pace. With tectonic plates separating faster than previously thought, scientists are uncovering surprising details about the future of this phenomenon—but the full story of its impact on Africa’s landscape and ecosystems is even more astonishing. SPOTLIGHT:  Jewel Rodgers appointed as first African American Nebraska poet laureate:  Gov. Jim Pillen appointed Omaha author and performer Jewel Rodgers as Nebraska's new state poet. Rodgers, 27, is the youngest and first African American person to hold that position. MORE NEWS:  Meta said on Tuesday that it was ending its longstanding fact-checking program, a policy instituted to curtail the spread of misinformation across its social media apps, in a stark sign of how the company was repositioning itself for the Trump presidency and throwing its weight behind unfettered speech online. FEATURE:  The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourages people to avoid large amounts of alcohol and suggests sticking to two or fewer drinks daily for men and one or fewer drinks a day for women. Yet, the U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s newest Advisory suggests that even small amounts of alcohol could be harmful and may increase your risk of developing cancer.

BREAKING:  Bird flu is on the rise in animals and house hold pets; scientist are worried about the transference to humans, which a few cases seem possible already. Dinga Dinga is a mystery virus causing excessive body-shaking in hundreds of Ugandanaians. The condition, predominantly impacting women and girls, is characterized by fever and excessive body shaking, which severely hampers mobility. GREEN WATCH:  The Vanuatu archipelago face billions of dollars worth of damage after the 7.3 magnitude earthquake and the host of 6..0+ aftershocks affecting the region.  SPOTLIGHT:  Jamiee Foxx tells riveting story thru Netflix performance release this December.  The six Triple Eight movie captures forgotten American history, where Black women soldiers help save the morale of American soldiers; it was also released on Netflix. Also, Kwanzaa is just around the corner:  here are the seven principles MORE NEWS:  Americans have loss confidence in the country's court system; this news article from the AP explains why FEATURE:  Shocking data about older Black men born between 1951-70 shows a prevalence of death due to drug overdoses Hosts close out with important holiday messages.

BREAKING NEWS: The Madison, Wisconsin 15-year-old school shooter is now deceased, but questions arise about the root of this teen's anger. Green Watch Breaking: Poverty-stricken French Island, Mayotte, one of the 18 regions of France, has been severely damaged by Cyclone Chido over the weekend where many residents have not been found. Meanwhile, San Francisco, Calif. had its first ever tornado warning; however, Scotts Valley endured a tornado that touched down as an EF1 with 90 MPH peaked winds, causing severe damage in a short amount of time. Lead Story: FBI sends out another warning regarding our daily technology, this time it is not about the fake election videos hacked by Russians; instead, FBI warns iPhone and Android users not to send text messages. As the glue to fit all the pieces together, the hosts show a clip from Dr. Egon Cholakian-endorsed documentary film, The Impact. The film touches heavily on the direct disinformation campaign and manipulations to control populations with their own words, technology and fear. The Black Headline News Talk Radio show will be watching an excerpt each week concerning the movie. 

BREAKING:Penny acquitted in NYC subway chokehold trial Chinese gold mining operation threatens protected UN heritage site in the Congo GREEN WATCH:  US Department of Defense is concerned about Climate Change in Africa SPOTLIGHT:  The Nickel Boys movie is releases this weekend MORE NEWS:Treasury Department Treasury Department may fine small businesses $10,000 or more if they don't file this new report Lead Story: Biden Administration appoints 40 Black women federal judges

Breaking Stories:  A complaint filed with the Department of Education alleges that programs for men of color at least eight California State University campuses — including Cal Poly — violate federal civil rights law. A Third Woman Died Under Texas’ Abortion Ban. Doctors Are Avoiding D&Cs and Reaching for Riskier Miscarriage Treatments Post Election:    Black rural voters felt neglected by the Democratic Party Green Watch:  Gary Indiana air toxic. Lead Story:  More Black doctors are needed; the cost is outrageous to attend school

GREEN WATCH: Saudi Arabian desert gets historic snowfall: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region has witnessed its first-ever recorded snowfall, blanketing the desert with snow for the first time in history. This rare phenomenon follows intense rain and hailstorms that swept across the kingdom, transforming parts of the arid landscape into a winter scene more typical of colder climates.POST ELECTION NEWS: Pamela Goodwine makes history as first Black woman on the Kentucky Supreme Court; she became the first Black woman to serve on the Kentucky Court of Appeals after being elected in 2018.Now, she’s made history again. Goodwine won her election to the Kentucky Supreme Court, where she will again be the first Black woman, by defeating Lexington attorney Erin Izzo. (The Guardian) The US will have two Black women serving as senators for the first time in US history, with the election of Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland.Blunt Rochester, a congresswoman from Delaware, will be the first woman and Black senator to represent the state. Alsobrooks, a former county executive and prosecutor who beat out the state’s former Republican governor in a tight race, is the first Black senator from Maryland.Three other Black women have served in the US Senate , including Carol Moseley Braun, Kamala Harris and Laphonza Butler. There has never been more than one Black woman in the Senate at a time.Blunt Rochester, who was also the first Black person and first woman from Delaware elected to Congress, highlighted those women in a victory speech during a Tuesday evening election party where she was greeted by supporters chanting “LBR”.

Recap Part 1: The Black Headline News live broadcast of the November 5 election included news commentary during the broadcasts with BHN Talk Radio Show news hosts, Cheryl Smith, Brigitte Jones and Julia Ann Dudley Najieb, along with special guest hosts, Ashley Ann, a social media influencer, and Harrison Chastang of KPOO Radio 89.5 FM.